An 18th century palace turned into a restaurant

Casa de los Azulejos (House of Tiles), is possibly the most traditional restaurant in Mexico City and it has become a symbol of the historical center of the city. Built in the 18th century by a powerful family in Mexico, it was sold a decade later to Sanborns, a classic chain of restaurants and shops in Mexico and today, it stands as the company’s flagship. Sanborns was originally founded by two brothers, Frank and Walter Sanborns, but now belongs to Carlos Slim.

The house is located right in the historical center of the city, between 5 de mayo street and Madero street, right across from the famous Bellas Artes Palace and it can be easily distinguished by its facade decorated with blue, yellow and white tiles which are typical to the neighboring state of Puebla and its balconies and doors in carved stone.

The interior of the house shows the lavish lifestyle that the original family lived. The house is made up of two stories, mostly decorated in a Baroque style. the underground floor contains a fountain and columns with French porcelain crowns decorating them. Two large murals decorate the interior and on the second floor, contains golden angel statues as well as porcelain art.

As you enter, what you will first see is a shop that sells everything from medicine to gourmet chocolates. As you walk further inside, you’ll find the entrance to the restaurant and an 18th century elevator which is still in use and will take you to the upper level.

As every old building in Mexico, the house witnessed tragedies during the many wars Mexico was involved in during the 19th century. On the stairways, one of the counts of the Valle de Orizaba was murdered by one of his daughter’s lovers.

Soldiers of the Emiliano Zapata and Francisco Villa army would have lunch here on a regular basis.

The restaurant offers typical Mexican cuisine, from tacos to enchiladas to tortilla soup. A must-go-to if you find yourself in Mexico City.